Madden’s Retirement Isn’t From Video Games

1) A weekend of football without Madden is going to just seem wrong. I don’t think I’ve gone a whole weekend of an NFL season without hearing him call a game in over a decade.

2) I hope this doesn’t affect the Madden video game franchise. The only thing worse than a football season without Madden the guy is a season without Madden the game.

The first part can be cured by some ESPN Classic or old games on NFL Network; it’ll be unpleasant but I’ll probably survive. And, as it turns out, the second part isn’t an issue at all.

“EA SPORTS continues its strong relationship with John Madden and will continue to produce new versions EA SPORTS Madden NFL with John’s collaboration. His retirement has no impact on EA, other than us wishing him the very best in this next stage in his life. He’s earned the time off,” said EA Sports PR Manager Rob Semsey via email. “We will continue to work with John, as we have for years, on the making of Madden NFL. His role has evolved over the years through the creative development process of the game. That will not change any time soon.”

And of course Peter Moore issued a statement: “John is a true sports icon who has made an indelible impact on the sport of football which will be felt forever. His prolific coaching and broadcasting careers, as well as his distinct role in shaping the EA SPORTS football experience have redefined how multiple generations have come to know and love the sport with unrivaled passion. We’re excited to see his legacy live on in the 21st year of Madden NFL football, and well beyond. It’s been a privilege for EA SPORTS to have had the strong relationship we’ve had with John for more than two decades and one that will continue into the future.”

Whew. I guess everything’s going to be okay after all. All you Madden fans can continue waiting impatient for Madden NFL 10 to hit shelves on August 14.